Impact Of Financial Inclusion On Poverty Reduction Among Small Holder Farmers In Dodoma: A Case Of Chamwino District

ABSTRACT

Inclusive finance is drawing attention as a vehicle for economic growth and poverty reduction. This study focused on the impact of financial inclusion on poverty reduction among small holders‘ farmers in Dodoma particularly Chamwino District. The study specifically focused on the type of financial institutions available to small holder farmers, the contribution of access to financial services by smallholder farmers and the effects of financial inclusion on poverty reduction. The study used a cross-sectional design which was selected because it uses a variety of techniques in data collection. The information was collected from 140 sample size while data collection was facilitated through questionnaires and interview. Results showed that, the majority households accessed loans, financial training and advice on how to manage finances in credit and cooperative financial institutions and from private money lenders while some have managed to open an account. This significantly builds a foundation for overcoming absolute poverty especially at the low level of household, as it is believed that financial services accessibility in wider context provides more opportunities to acquire assets that eventually helps to eliminate poverty. The study has recommended on the decision makers to introduce more awareness programmes that will inform small holder farmers of the available financial services and institutions and how they can access different financial services that will enable them acquire assets thus reducing poverty.